Cummings to step aside from Sky Sports

Former referee Stuart Cummings will step aside from his role at Sky Sports to take up a new position at the International Rugby League Federation.

Cummings will take on the role of Match Official Manager, the first role of its kind in the organisation.

Speaking about his appointment, he said: Commenting on his appointment, Cummings said: “I am really excited and honoured to be taking on this role with International Rugby League.

“Since I refereed my first international in 1994, I have seen officiating in international competition as the pinnacle of a match official’s career.

“I look forward to developing opportunities for officials to experience some of the highs that I did during my officiating career as well as working with countries where Rugby League is developing as a sport in order to create pathways for their match officials to progress”.

The IRL’s Global Operations Danny Kazandjian added: “We were really encouraged by the level of interest from highly qualified applicants for this important role.

“Stuart came through a rigorous selection process and we all look forward to working with him and helping him to grow and develop both the number and quality of the match officials available to officiate at international matches.

“Stuart brings independence, and is well respected across a number of sports. The high praise he has received for his achievements with other organisations underlines his capabilities.

“His multisport experience will be a real asset to International Rugby League.”